Waimea

Discover Waimea (also called Kamuela), which is unlike any other place on Hawaii’s Big Island. Known as paniolo country, meaning the Hawaiian cowboy, this historic area is simply full of rolling green pastures, and is still home to cattle, cowboys, and even ranches.

Waimea is a small town of approximately 9000 located on the Big Island of Hawaii at the 2900 foot elevation. Waimea, meaning red waters in Hawaiian, gets its name from the reddish color of the streams that flow through the center of town. Waimea truly is a place like no other! This is a place where stop signs read “Whoa,” instead of “Stop, where you will find performing theatres as opposed to movie theaters, local artists eager to share there works, and an overwhelming feeling of Ohana, which is Hawaiian for “family”.

Waimea is characterized by wide open spaces, and treasured for it’s incredible views of Mauna Kea. But it is more than county charm that draws in most residents and visitors. With state-of-the-art schools, an award winning hospital, and a family friendly community, you don’t have to look hard to find a reason to love Waimea. You can live in this colorful mountain community, and yet be just a short drive to tropical white sand beaches of the Kohala Coast. There really is no place like it!

Waimea has such an incredible heritage which offers insight to the rich history of ranching and the paniolo on the Big Island.The lush green hills of Waimea offer a beautiful back drop to the vast variety of amazing attractions and historic sites.C currently Waimea offers many shopping, dining, and visitor experiences. In addition astronomy and education, Waimea provides some of the best employment opportunities in the town!

Waimea is home to the the Kahilu Theatre which features world-renowned dance troupes, performers and musicians. The Kahilu Theatre enjoys a first-class year-round performances. Performers at Kahilu have included Chick Corea, Paul Taylor Dance Company, Laurie Anderson, Chanticleer and the Harlem Gospel Choir. A big draw is the annual Waimea ‘Ukulele & Slack Key Institute concert.

Dahana Ranch is another one of Waimea’s most popular attractions. Dahana Ranch is the only Native Hawaiian, family owned and operated activities ranch on the Big Island and perhaps even in the whole state of Hawaii! Formally known as Nakoa Ranch it started as a native Hawaiian award in 1951 by my father, William Pa’akaula Kalawaia’nui. Dahana is a working cattle ranch where guests can enjoy driving cattle, horseback riding, touring the scenic grounds, and more! Spencer Beach Park is the ideal destination for family fun. Guests can enjoy relaxing under a canopy of green trees, while listening to the serene sound of the calm waters surrounding you. This lovely sandy beach is located just south of Kawaihae Harbor. The beach is protected by a large reef and the breakwater of the harbor.The water is usually calm enough for the entire family to enjoy swimming there.

Planning a trip to Waimea? Start by finding the perfect place to stay! ShortTermHousing.com has a lot to offer by way of corporate housing, furnished apartments, and vacation rentals! We will help find the very best place for you!